Defenders (7)
1. Gary Cahill. Barring a horrendous loss of form, or an injury, the Chelsea centre-back will line-up in the middle of England’s back four in Manaus against Italy. Clear first choice.
2. Phil Jagielka. Same as Cahill, first choice for Hodgson and will be heading to Brazil as part of that defensive partnership.
3. Ashley Cole. I know people have their doubts about Cole, and many people believe Baines is first choice for England, but as a man with over 100 England caps, his experience and his presence in the dressing room make him a must, whether he starts or not. Also I feel he would get the nod in games against top class opposition as he is simply a better defender than Baines.
4. Leighton Baines. Has been Cole’s understudy for a long time and is now a legitimate challenger for the left back spot, as he provides more threat going forward and can take an excellent free kick. Will be going to Brazil if fit.
5. Glen Johnson. The only real options for the right back position are Johnson and Walker, and I just feel the experience of the Liverpool man puts him in pole position, and for me is better defensively than the young Spurs fullback.
6. Chris Smalling. Having put in some assured performances for Manchester United this season, Smalling is a very competent back up at either centre-back or right-back for England, and will surely be heading to Brazil.
7. Phil Jones. Due to me only picking 7 defenders, I needed to choose versatility, so Jones gets the nod for the last spot over Kyle Walker, who would be unlucky to miss out. Jones is a favourite of Hodgson, and has been described by Sir Alex Ferguson as having the potential to be the best centre-back ever to play for the Red Devils, high praise indeed for a young man. Has shown glimpses of his ability, and can play at a number of positions, so expect him to travel.